Question about Fine arts major in Cornell University

<p>I am a high school senior and is now waiting for university offers. I prefer to study art in comprehensive universities rather than in art schools as I like the interdisciplinary programs and their emphasis on ideas and knowledge. But since there are only rankings on fine arts major for graduate schools, I can not tell if some schools might have a much better art program in undergrad than in grad school.
I saw on US news Ranking that Cornell's grad fine arts program only ranks 36 but a family friend says that it has a very strong undergrad art department. Many people apply for it but I don't know if It is only because Cornell is an Ivy League school or because of its Art. I applied as I love the philosophy of the department, the quality of teaching and the Campus.but I am really afraid that it is not what I think it is( u know..every uni thinks they are the best on every subject lol.) and everytime Cornell introduces the department of Art, Architecture and Planning, it seems to ignore the Art department but mainly talks about the other two.
This really confuses and worries me and I hope someone knows about Cornell's Fine Arts department can help me on this... Many thanks!</p>

<p>Hi, I don’t have much to add to this but since no one else has responded I am trying to keep your thread alive…</p>

<p>That is my impression, too, without (yet) having visited Cornell. The common data sets show that the art kids are the small minority within the AAP. Most attention goes to Architecture and Planning. There are a couple of posters on this board who have experience with AAP, either personally or through their kids.</p>

<p>However this said, if you love Cornell, well, it’s Cornell. Twenty years ago I majored in anthro – one of the smallest depts in my college. Four faculty members and if one of them was on sabbatical, which one of them always was, well you do the math. On the bright side I always got into the seminars I wanted. I became very close to my advisor and to the other anthro majors. </p>

<p>S is looking at Cornell also. We are hoping the dual degree BFA and BA won’t be impossible. I have this ongoing conversation with him. His thing is that he is open to conceptual / abstract stuff but his interest is figurative / representational. He is applying to one LAC solely on the basis of adoring the work of the two profs (yes, two) and the general vibe and caliber of the campus. I tell him it’s not a good idea, with only a couple of profs and a school not known for fine arts in any way, but he has his reasons. </p>

<p>Visiting and comparing, I think, are key. Good luck and let us know what happens!</p>

<p>My son did his graduate work at Cornell in architecture. You are correct that architecture dominates the AAP School. The art department is solid and reasonably well respected, though I wouldn’t call it a visual arts destination. The students and faculty are close knit and supportive. </p>

<p>My son loved Cornell’s rural environment. He was glad, however, that he chose a smaller less party-focused school for undergrad. If you’ve visited and feel you’d fit in at Cornell, that will be a major factor in your decision. </p>

<p>Since it appears that you’ve already applied and are waiting for results, come back and talk more after you have know your options (and your financial packages).</p>

<p>Thanks for helping :)!<br>
I went to Cornell and really love the environment there, but just really not sure about my major…
I ve already got merit scholarship from School of Art Institute of Chicago and Savannah College of Art, but still waiting for better offers(a little bit greedy, haha)
I will let u guys know when offers come.</p>